Factors influencing the onset and progression of pododermatitis in captive flamingos (Phoenicopteridae).

Wyss, F. S.; Wenker, C.; Hoby, S.; Gardelli, B.; Studer-Thiersch, A.; von Houwald, F.; Schumacher, Vanessa; Clauss, M.; Doherr, Marcus G.; Häfeli, W.; Furrer, S.; Béchet, A.; Robert, N. (2013). Factors influencing the onset and progression of pododermatitis in captive flamingos (Phoenicopteridae). Schweizer Archiv für Tierheilkunde, 155(9), pp. 497-503. Huber 10.1024/0036-7281/a000499

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Pododermatitis is a worldwide problem in captive flamingos. We performed an evaluation of different influence factors (age, sex, weight, origin, breeding status) and a comparison of foot lesions between several zoological institutions and the feet of free-ranging Greater flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus). A scoring system was used to determine the prevalence and types of lesions and severity. Cracks and nodules developed as early as 3 months of age and papillomatous growths as early as 6 to 7 months of age in captivity. Nodules with ulceration occurred significantly more often in birds older than 31 years and heavier than 4 kg. The comparison of different institutions revealed that birds kept in enclosures with natural-floored water ponds had significantly less severe lesions than birds kept in concrete water ponds. None of the free-ranging flamingos, which live on a muddy underground, showed any lesion. This study demonstrates that flooring, weight and age are important in the onset and progression of pododermatitis in flamingos.

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